Nwankwo Kanu OON is a Nigerian former professional footballer and a Humanitarian who played as a forward. He was a member of the Nigerian national team. Kanu is a native of Abia State, southeast Nigeria. He was born in August 1976.
There is no doubt that Nwankwo Kanu A.K.A Papilo a former Super Eagles attacker and captain is one of the greatest footballer to have represented Nigeria both in Youths and Senior levels.
He is well respected both home and abroad as a legend of the game. As a result of his positive contributions through sport to Nigeria as a Nation, football to be precise, he was awarded with one of Nigeria's National Honours; Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
Kanu began his Football Career at Iwuanywu Nationale before moving to Ajax Amsterdam in 1993 and to other European Clubs; Inter Milan, Arsenal, West Brom and Portsmouth. His total career matches played for clubs are 406 scoring 98 goals.
Kanu during his days with Ajax Amsterdam (Getty Image)
During his exploits with Inter Milan (Getty Image)
When Kanu was unveiled at Arsenal
Kanu contesting for ball against an opponent
Kanu in Portsmouth's colours
Kanu played, captained and inspired the Nigerian Men's Football Olympic Team in Atlanta, USA in 1996 to victory against a star studded Brazilian team clinching the Gold Medal.
He was part of the Team who were the runners-up in year 2000 loosing his own penalty kick. He was also a member of the cup winning Nigeria U17 Team of 1993 held in Japan.
Kanu was a Nigeria Premier League winner in 1992/1993 with Iwuanywu Nationale.
A three times Eredivisie winner - three times in a role.
A UEFA Champions League, UEFA Cup (UEROPA League), UEFA Super Cup, and Intercontinental Cup (FIFA Club World Cup) winner.
A two times English Premier League, Three Times FA Cup, and FA Charity Shield Winner.
Kanu was a two times African player of the Year and two times BBC African Player of the Year.
All Images: courtesy (Getty Image)
From this records is Kanu not a living legend?
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